High Performance

Precast concrete components play a key role in creating a high-performance building that maximizes the benefits from integrated-design strategies. Integrated design balances efficiencies for all of the building’s materials, systems and design in a systematic blend that creates a structure in which the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

High-performance buildings combine energy efficiency, low cost, high durability (or service life), space flexibility, low environmental impact and high quality of life. Choices in one area impact other areas, requiring all systems to be considered together.

Some of the primary ways that precast concrete components help maximize performance in an integrated-design solution include:

Reduction in the amount of material used and the toxicity of waste materials

Precast concrete can be designed to optimize or lessen the amount of concrete used. Industrial wastes such as slag cement and silica fume can be incorporated into the mix, reducing the amount of cement. As a manufactured product created under controlled conditions in the plant, precast concrete generates low amounts of waste, and the waste generated has low toxicity.

Reuse and repair of products

Precast concrete panels can be reused when buildings are expanded. Because the precast process is self-contained, formwork and finishing materials are reused. Wood or fiberglass forms can generally be used 40 to 50 times without major maintenance, while concrete and steel forms have practically unlimited service lives.

Recycle and reuse of products with recycled content

Concrete can be recycled as fill or road base. Wood and steel forms are recycled when they become worn or obsolete. Virtually all reinforcing steel is made from recycled steel. Many cement plants burn waste-derived fuels such as spent solvents, used oils and tires.